Saturday, February 25, 2017

Great grey Owl Hunting - Naturally.. no bait, no calls. At this location, they have a guard that protects the birds and wild life! Amazing. We cannot even take a step off the path.

Sit and wait.

Previous to this shot, we waited more then 1 full hour,.. freezing cold, a good 15 km wind, and a coffee was 2.5 km walk away from this area of the park... along an icy trail! In fact, we were on the trail for a good 3.5 hours before we had a good chance! I was not dressed warm enough, so at this point I was starting to shiver!

I watched through my viewfinder for 99% of the time waiting for this chance. Sooo much fun!!

Making nature photography easy with baiting is pathetic., and lazy. Good shots are earned, along with respect. This bird was comfortable around people because it was not harassed.

Watching an owl hunt for food and make a kill is as much fun as watching a lion hunt and kill.. I have seen both. Truly real, and awesome.

Sunday, February 12, 2017

Imagine going to a place where baiters are not permitted! A fellow patrolling this location, protecting the nature as things they should be. A place where it is unacceptable to walk off the trails.

A place that people can visit with respect toward wildlife and birds, and not need tobe so concerned with confrontations involving those who selfishly and ignorantly disrespect.

What a superb experience. We had 2 Great grey owls yesterday afternoon, up near Montreal. 3 hours of enjoyment with my friend of many emailing years (10) Chuck Kling, a fellow who has kept me informed regarding all the conservation issues in his area of Quebec.

Brilliant !! Watching this bird hunt from perch to perch, carefully examining the area for any sign of

a possible meal. Using it's facial disks to listen for any sort of rodent squeak! I have never in

my life seen a bird hunt so aggressively... real nature is spectacular to witness.

Personally, photography of nature is not about getting the most likes, the most followers, the most "great shot!" comments, biggest chest, adulation, etc. Enjoying

the beauty of nature, then sharing the images with folks around the world to help gain a greater appreciation of our nature world.

So we can all strive toward conservation and appreciation of all birds, animals, and fauna.

This is absolutely not about me. or my picture, or my ego, or a contest - biggest chest?? Never.

Having fun with my friends and workshop guests, teaching techniques, settings,approach and respect, and the most fun, helping people understand the natural way of things.

Understanding your subject, and showing respect will always be the best advantage in the real world of nature photography.

Taking advantage, and virtual abuse is done selfishly with poor judgement (unreal lazy). If you really want to be a hero, go play golf, go racing, play baseball, compete in a sport. Tossing bait to a helpless animal doesn't make you special, it doesn't gain you respect, and does not make you special.

Only my opinions, hoping a few beginners understand some values, and etiquette.